Variable friction cargo surface system for vehicles

ABSTRACT

Cargo systems are provided for vehicles that include, in one embodiment: a variable cargo surface disposed within a body of the vehicle behind one or more occupant seats, the variable cargo surface including: a low friction surface that facilitates movement of cargo within the cargo system, the low friction surface having a first coefficient of friction; a high friction surface that inhibits movement of cargo within the cargo system, the high friction surface having a second coefficient of friction that is greater than the first coefficient of friction; and a control device that selectively activates the low friction surface and the high friction surface based on conditions for the vehicle; wherein the low friction surface contacts the cargo within the cargo system when the low friction surface is activated; and the high friction surface contacts the cargo within the cargo system when the high friction surface is activated.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a continuation of, and claims priority to, U.S. application Ser.No. 16/178,040, filed Nov. 1, 2018, the entirety of which isincorporated by reference herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The technical field generally relates to the field of vehicles and, morespecifically, to cargo systems for vehicles.

INTRODUCTION

Many vehicles include cargo regions. However, it may be desirable toprovide improved cargo regions, for example that further facilitateholding cargo in place and facilitating movement of cargo when desired.

Accordingly, it is desirable to provide cargo systems for vehicles, forexample that further facilitate holding cargo in place and facilitatingmovement of cargo when desired.

Furthermore, other desirable features and characteristics of the presentinvention will become apparent from the subsequent detailed descriptionand the appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings.

SUMMARY

A cargo system is provided for a vehicle. In one embodiment, the cargosystem includes a surface that inhibits movement of cargo within thecargo system; and a control device that selectively activates anddeactivates the surface based on conditions of the vehicle.

Also in one embodiment, the cargo system also includes a chamber coupledto the surface, the chamber configured to receive fluid for activatingor deactivating the surface; and a fluid movement device configured tomove fluid into or out of the chamber, to thereby activate or deactivatethe surface.

Also in one embodiment, the cargo system also includes one or morechannels coupled between the fluid movement device and the chamber fordelivery of fluid therebetween; and the movement device includes a pumpthat is configured to: move fluid into the chamber for activation of thesurface, when the surface is activated; and move fluid out of thechamber for de-activation of the surface, when the surface is activated.

Also in one embodiment, the cargo system also includes a sensorconfigured to receive sensor inputs regarding the conditions of thevehicle; and the control device includes a processor that is configuredto determine a selected activation or deactivation of the surface basedon the sensor inputs, and to provide instructions for the selectedactivation or deactivation of the surface.

Also in one embodiment, the surface includes a high friction surfacehaving a second coefficient of friction; the cargo system furtherincludes a low friction surface that facilitates movement of cargowithin the cargo system, the low friction surface having a firstcoefficient of friction that is less than the second coefficient offriction; and the control device selectively activates the low frictionsurface and the high friction surface based on conditions of thevehicle.

Also in in one embodiment, the low friction surface contacts the cargowithin the cargo system when the low friction surface is activated; andthe high friction surface contacts the cargo within the cargo systemwhen the high friction surface is activated.

Also in one embodiment, the cargo system further includes: a chambercoupled to the low friction surface or the high friction surface, thechamber configured to receive fluid for activating or deactivating thelow friction surface or the high friction surface; and one or morechannels coupled between the fluid movement device and the chamber fordelivery of fluid therebetween and a fluid movement device configured tomove fluid into or out of the chamber, via the one or more channels, tothereby activate or deactivate the low friction surface or the highfriction surface.

Also in one embodiment, the cargo system further includes: a firstchamber coupled to the low friction surface, the first chamberconfigured to receive fluid for activating the low friction surface; asecond chamber coupled to the high friction surface, the second chamberconfigured to receive fluid for activating the high friction surface;one or more fluid movement devices configured to move fluid into and outof the first and second chambers, to thereby selectively activate anddeactivate the low friction surface and the high friction surface; oneor more first channels coupled between one or more of the fluid movementdevices and the first chamber for delivery of fluid therebetween; andone or more second channels coupled between one or more of the fluidmovement devices and the second chamber for delivery of fluidtherebetween.

Also in one embodiment, the one or more fluid movement devices include atwo-way pump that is configured to move fluid between the first chamberand the second chamber, to thereby selectively activate and deactivatethe low friction surface and the high friction surface.

A method is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes: receivingsensor inputs from a sensor onboard a vehicle; and via a processoronboard the vehicle: selecting one of a low friction surface or a highfriction surface of a cargo system for the vehicle for activation basedon the sensor inputs; and providing instructions for the activation ofthe selected one of the low friction surface or the high frictionsurface; wherein: the low friction surface facilitates movement of cargowithin the cargo system, with a first coefficient of friction; and thehigh friction surface inhibits movement of cargo within the cargosystem, with a second coefficient of friction that is greater than thefirst coefficient of friction.

Also in one embodiment, the step of providing the instructions includes:providing instructions, via the processor, for one or more pumps onboardthe vehicle to selectively provide fluid to a chamber associated withthe selected one of the low friction surface or the high frictionsurface, to thereby activate the selected one of the low frictionsurface or the high friction surface and allow the selected one of thelow friction surface or the high friction surface to contact cargowithin the cargo system.

Also in one embodiment, the step of providing the instructions includes:providing instructions, via the processor, for one or more of the pumpsonboard the vehicle to selectively provide fluid: out of the highpressure chamber and into the low pressure chamber, when activation ofthe low pressure chamber is desired; and out of the low pressure chamberand into the high pressure chamber, when activation of the high pressurechamber is desired.

A vehicle is provided. In one embodiment, the vehicle includes: a body;one or more occupant seats disposed within the body; and a cargo systemincluding: a variable cargo surface disposed within the body of thevehicle behind one or more of the occupant seats, the variable cargosurface including: a low friction surface that facilitates movement ofcargo within the cargo system, the low friction surface having a firstcoefficient of friction; a high friction surface that inhibits movementof cargo within the cargo system, the high friction surface having asecond coefficient of friction that is greater than the firstcoefficient of friction; and a control device that selectively activatesthe low friction surface and the high friction surface based onconditions for the vehicle; wherein: the low friction surface contactsthe cargo within the cargo system when the low friction surface isactivated; and the high friction surface contacts the cargo within thecargo system when the high friction surface is activated.

Also in one embodiment, the vehicle further includes: a chamber coupledto the low friction surface or the high friction surface, the chamberconfigured to receive fluid for activating or deactivating the lowfriction surface or the high friction surface; a fluid movement deviceconfigured to move fluid into or out of the chamber, to thereby activateor deactivate the low friction surface or the high friction surface; andone or more channels coupled between the fluid movement device and thechamber for delivery of fluid therebetween.

Also in one embodiment, the chamber is coupled to the low frictionsurface; and the fluid movement device includes a pump that isconfigured to: move fluid into the chamber for activation of the lowfriction surface, such that the low friction surface extends above thehigh friction surface, such that the low friction surface contacts cargoin the vehicle when the low friction surface is activated; and movefluid out of the chamber for de-activation of the low friction surface,such that the low friction surface does not extend above the highfriction surface, such that the high friction surface contacts the cargoin the cargo system when the low friction surface is activated.

Also in one embodiment, the vehicle further includes: a first chambercoupled to the low friction surface, the first chamber configured toreceive fluid for activating the low friction surface; a second chambercoupled to the high friction surface, the second chamber configured toreceive fluid for activating the high friction surface; one or morefluid movement devices configured to move fluid into and out of thefirst and second chambers, to thereby selectively activate anddeactivate the low friction surface and the high friction surface; oneor more first channels coupled between one or more of the fluid movementdevices and the first chamber for delivery of fluid therebetween; andone or more second channels coupled between one or more of the fluidmovement devices and the second chamber for delivery of fluidtherebetween.

Also in one embodiment, the one or more fluid movement devices include atwo-way pump that is configured to move fluid between the first chamberand the second chamber, to thereby selectively activate and deactivatethe low friction surface and the high friction surface.

Also in one embodiment, the vehicle further includes: a sensorconfigured to receive sensor inputs regarding the conditions of thevehicle; wherein the control device includes a processor that isconfigured to determine a selected one of the low friction surface orthe high friction surface for activation based on the sensor inputs, andto provide instructions for the activation of the selected one of thelow friction surface or the high friction surface.

Also in one embodiment, the one or more occupant seats include one ormore front occupant seats and one or more rear occupant seats; and thevariable cargo surface is disposed in a rear cargo region behind the oneor more rear occupant seats.

Also in one embodiment, the one or more occupant seats include one ormore front occupant seats and one or more rear occupant seats; the oneor more rear occupant seats have a front side, on which an occupant maysit when the one or more rear occupant seats are in a seating position,and a rear side, on which cargo may be stored when the one or more rearoccupant seats are in a cargo position; and the variable cargo surfaceis disposed on the rear side of one or more of the rear occupant seats.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure will hereinafter be described in conjunction withthe following drawing figures, wherein like numerals denote likeelements, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of a vehicle, namely an automobile,that includes a cargo system with variable friction surfaces, forexample that facilitates holding cargo in place and facilitatingmovement of cargo when desired, in accordance with exemplaryembodiments;

FIG. 2 provides an illustration of variable friction surfaces of thecargo system of FIG. 1, in accordance with exemplary embodiments;

FIG. 3 provides an exploded view of the variable friction surfaces ofFIG. 2, shown with a high friction surface activated, in accordance withexemplary embodiments;

FIG. 4 provides a functional block diagram of a computer system of thecargo system of FIG. 1, in accordance with exemplary embodiments;

FIG. 5 depicts a functional block diagram of a control system of thecargo system of FIG. 1, and that can be implemented in connection withthe computer system of FIG. 4, in accordance with exemplary embodiments;and

FIG. 6 depicts a flowchart of a process for controlling a cargo systemof a vehicle, and that can be implemented in connection with the vehicleand cargo system of FIG. 2, the variable friction surfaces of FIGS. 2and 3 the computer system of FIG. 4, and the control system of FIG. 5,in accordance with exemplary embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and isnot intended to limit the disclosure or the application and usesthereof. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theorypresented in the preceding background or the following detaileddescription.

FIG. 1 illustrates a vehicle 100 having a cargo system 102, inaccordance with exemplary embodiments. As described in greater detailbelow, the cargo system 102 includes a plurality of friction surfaces120, including a low friction surface 122 and a high friction surface124.

As depicted in FIG. 1, in certain embodiments, the vehicle 100 comprisesan automobile, such as a sport utility vehicle. It will be appreciatedthat the cargo system 102 described herein may be implemented in anynumber of different types of vehicles and/or platforms. For example, invarious embodiments, the vehicle 100 may comprise any number ofdifferent types of automobiles (e.g., taxi cabs, vehicle fleets, buses,sedans, wagons, trucks, and other automobiles), other types of vehicles(e.g., marine vehicles, locomotives, aircraft, spacecraft, and othervehicles), and/or other mobile platforms, and/or components thereof.

In various embodiments, the vehicle 100 includes a body 104 that isarranged on a chassis 106. The body 104 substantially encloses othercomponents of the vehicle 100. The body 104 and the chassis 106 mayjointly form a frame. The vehicle 100 also includes a plurality ofwheels 108. The wheels 108 are each rotationally coupled to the chassis106 near a respective corner of the body 104 to facilitate movement ofthe vehicle 100. In one embodiment, the vehicle 100 includes four wheels108, although this may vary in other embodiments (for example for trucksand certain other vehicles).

A drive system 110 is mounted on the chassis 106, and drives the wheels108, for example via axles 112. The drive system 110 preferablycomprises a propulsion system. In certain exemplary embodiments, thedrive system 110 comprises an internal combustion engine and/or anelectric motor/generator, coupled with a transmission thereof. Incertain embodiments, the drive system 110 may vary, and/or two or moredrive systems 110 may be used. By way of example, the vehicle 100 mayalso incorporate any one of, or combination of, a number of differenttypes of propulsion systems, such as, for example, a gasoline or dieselfueled combustion engine, a “flex fuel vehicle” (FFV) engine (i.e.,using a mixture of gasoline and alcohol), a gaseous compound (e.g.,hydrogen and/or natural gas) fueled engine, a combustion/electric motorhybrid engine, and an electric motor.

Also as depicted in FIG. 1, in various embodiments the vehicle 100includes occupant seats 114. In various embodiments, the vehicle 100includes one or more front seats 116 and one or more rear seats 118. Invarious embodiments, the front seats 116 comprise one or more seatingbenches, bucket seats, and/or one or more other types of seatingconfigurations for a front row of the vehicle 100, while the rear seats118 comprise one or more seating benches, bucket seats, and/or one ormore other types of seating configurations behind the front row. Incertain embodiments, the rear seats 118 are foldable, rotatable, and/orotherwise movable between (i) a seating position, in which occupants maybe seated on the rear seats 118; and (ii) a cargo position, in whichcargo may be stored on the rear seats 118.

In the depicted embodiment, the cargo system 102 includes theabove-referenced variable friction surfaces 120. In certain embodiments,the variable friction surfaces 120 are disposed in a rear cargo region,behind the rear seats 118, or in an exterior cargo area, such as a truckbed. In certain embodiments, the variable friction surfaces 120 aredisposed as part of the rear seats 118, for example on a back side ofthe rear seats 118 (e.g., so that cargo may be stored on the frictionsurfaces 120 when the rear seats 118 are folded into the cargoposition).

As noted above, in various embodiments, the variable friction surfaces120 include a low friction surface 122 and a high friction surface 124.In various embodiments, the low friction surface 122 is made of a firstmaterial that facilitates movement of cargo within, and into and out of,the cargo system 102. Also in various embodiments, the high frictionsurface 124 is made of a second material that is different from thefirst material, and that inhibits movement of cargo within, and into andout of, the cargo system 102. Accordingly, in various embodiments, whenthe low friction surface 122 is activated, cargo may move relativelyfreely into and out of (and within) the cargo system 102. Conversely,also in various embodiments, when the high friction surface 124 isactivated, cargo is inhibited from moving into and out of (and within)the cargo system 102.

In various embodiments, the cargo system 102 selectively activates thelow friction surface 122 and the high friction surface 124 depending onwhether free movement of cargo is desired. For example, when freemovement of the cargo is desired (e.g., for loading and unloading thecargo into and from the vehicle 100), then the low friction surface 122is activated in various embodiments. Conversely, when free movement ofthe cargo is not desired (e.g., after the cargo is loaded and/or whilethe vehicle 100 is moving), then the high friction surface 124 isactivated in various embodiments.

As depicted in FIG. 1, in various embodiments, the cargo system 102 alsoincludes one or more sensors 126, along with a computer system 128 andone or more fluid movement devices 130. In various embodiments, thesensors 126 receive inputs for use in determining whether activation ofthe low friction surface 122 or the high friction surface 124 isdesired. For example, in various embodiments, the one or more sensors126 may receive inputs as to whether a switch for the cargo system 102has been activated, and/or whether one or more other conditions aresatisfied that may impact whether activation of the low friction surface122 or the high friction surface 124 is desired (e.g., by way ofexample, as to whether the vehicle 100 is parked, a gear and/ortransmission status of the vehicle 100, whether a door or hatch of thevehicle 100 is open, whether the vehicle 100 is parked on an incline,and so on).

Also in certain embodiments, the computer system 128 may be used indetermining whether the low friction surface 122 or the high frictionsurface 124 should be activated (e.g., based on the sensor data from thesensors 126), and for providing instructions for activating the selectedsurface. Also in various embodiments, the computer system 128 includes aprocessor 402 and other computer components as depicted in FIG. 4 anddescribed further below in connection therewith.

Also in various embodiments, the fluid movement devices 130 are utilizedin selectively activating the low friction surface 122 and the highfriction surface 124. In certain embodiments, the fluid movement devices130 comprise one or more pumps, vacuums, and/or other devices formovement of fluid (e.g., a gas or liquid), to thereby inflate and/ordeflate respective chambers of the low friction surface 122 and/or highfriction surface 124. In certain embodiments, one or more fluid movementdevices 130 inflate the desired surface (i.e., one of the low frictionsurface 122 or high friction surface 124) that is desired foractivation, and/or deflate the non-desired surface (i.e., the other ofthe low friction surface 122 or high friction surface 124) that is notdesired for activation.

As described further below in connection herewith with respect to FIGS.2 and 3, in certain embodiments, the fluid movement devices pump and/oror remove fluid (e.g., a gas and/or liquid) to, from, or betweenrespective chambers of the low friction surface 122 and/or high frictionsurface 124 to achieve activation of the selected surface. In addition,as described further below in connection with FIGS. 4 and 5, in certainembodiments, the fluid movement devices 130 perform these functions viainstructions provided by the computer system 128 (e.g., the processor402 thereof of FIG. 4). For ease of reference, the fluid movementdevices 130 may also referred to herein as “pumps”; however, it will beunderstood that such references to “pumps” may also include vacuumsand/or other devices for moving fluid from one location to another, invarious embodiments.

FIG. 2 provides an illustration of variable friction surfaces 120 of thecargo system 102 of FIG. 1, including an exemplary low friction surface122 and high friction surface 124, in accordance with exemplaryembodiments. In various embodiments, the low friction surface 122facilitates movement of cargo within the cargo system 102. Also invarious embodiments, the high friction surface 124 inhibits movement ofcargo within the cargo system 102.

In addition, in various embodiments, the low friction surface 122 has afirst coefficient of friction, and the high friction surface 124 has asecond coefficient of friction that is greater than the firstcoefficient of friction of the low friction surface 122. In variousembodiments, the low friction surface 122 and the high friction surface124 are made of different materials. For example, in certainembodiments, the low friction surface 122 comprises a rubber material,and the high friction surface 124 comprises a nylon material. However,this may vary in other embodiments.

In various embodiments, the low friction surface 122 and high frictionsurface 124 may include one or more patterns of different/varyingmaterial to facilitate or inhibit, respectively, movement of cargo inthe cargo system 102. For example, in the example of FIG. 2, in certainembodiments, the low friction surface 122 may include a pattern withconnected rows of shapes with circular top surfaces, with the highfriction surface 124 filling in the regions in between. The specificpatterns may vary in different embodiments. However, in variousembodiments, the patterns (i) facilitate movement in multiple directions(e.g., front to back and side to side) when the low friction surface 122is activated; and (ii) inhibit movement in multiple directions (e.g.,front to back and side to side) when the high friction surface 124 isactivated.

In the depicted embodiments, the variable friction surfaces 120 utilizean airtight bladder system in which one of the variable frictionsurfaces 120 is activated (e.g., raised above the other surface forcontacting any cargo within the cargo system 102) at any particular time(e.g., via inflation of the surface and/or deflation of a differentsurface and/or respective chambers associated therewith), for example asdescribed in additional detail further below. In various embodiments,the low friction surface 122 contacts the cargo within the cargo system102 when the low friction surface 122 is activated. Conversely, also invarious embodiments, the high friction surface 124 instead contacts thecargo within the cargo system 102 when the high friction surface 124 isactivated.

As depicted in FIG. 2, in various embodiments, the variable frictionsurfaces 120 are coupled to one or more chambers 200. In variousembodiments, each chamber 200 is configured to receive fluid or havefluid removed, for inflation nor deflation thereof, respectively, foractivating or deceiving a respective one of the variable frictionsurfaces 120. Specifically, in certain embodiments depicted in FIG. 2,the low friction surface 122 is coupled to a first chamber 202, and thehigh friction surface 124 is coupled to a second chamber 204.Accordingly, in certain such embodiments, the first chamber 202 (i)receives fluid for inflation to elevate the low friction surface 122when the low friction surface 122 is activated; and (ii) in certainembodiments has fluid removed for deflation to lower the low frictionsurface 122 when the high friction surface 124 is activated. Similarly,also in certain embodiments, the second chamber 204 (i) receives fluidfor inflation to elevate the high friction surface 124 when the highfriction surface 124 is activated; and (ii) in certain embodiments hasfluid removed for deflation to lower the high friction surface 124 whenthe low friction surface 122 is activated.

In various embodiments, the type(s) of fluid used to inflate and/ordeflate the chambers 200 may vary. For example, in certain embodiments,a gas (e.g., air) may be utilized for a pneumatic solution. In otherembodiments, one or more liquids may be utilized.

In various embodiments, the low friction surface 122 is selected forcontact with cargo in the cargo system 102 when movement of the cargo isto be facilitated, for example when cargo may be loaded into and/orunloaded from the cargo system 102 (e.g., when the vehicle 100 isparked). In certain embodiments, the low friction surface 122 serves asa “default” surface, for example for when the vehicle 100 is not inoperation. In certain embodiments, the low friction surface 122, whenselected in this manner, is effectively elevated over the high frictionsurface 124 via inflation of the first chamber 202, to thereby contactthe cargo. In certain embodiments, the low friction surface 122 may beselected via deflation of the second chamber 204, instead of or inaddition to the inflation of the first chamber 202. In addition, incertain embodiments, the low friction surface 122 may be stationary, andset as a “default” service that is above the high friction surface 124(e.g., so that the low friction surface 122 is activated by default,until the high friction surface 124 is activated).

Conversely, also in various embodiments, the high friction surface 124is selected for contact with cargo in the cargo system 102 when movementof the cargo is to be inhibited, for example when cargo may be stored inplace within the cargo system 102 (e.g., when the vehicle 100 is inoperation or moving). In certain embodiments, the high friction surface124, when selected in this manner, is effectively elevated over the lowfriction surface 122 via inflation of the second chamber 204, to therebycontact the cargo. In certain embodiments, the high friction surface 124may be selected via deflation of the first chamber 202, instead of or inaddition to the inflation of the second chamber 204.

Also as depicted in FIG. 2, in various embodiments the variable frictionsurfaces 120 include and/or are coupled with one or more ports 210 andchannels 220. In various embodiments, respective ports 210 and channels220 are coupled (e.g., connected) to one another, and between the fluidmovement devices 130 of FIG. 1 (e.g., a pump and/or vacuum, in certainembodiments) and respective chambers 200, to facilitate fluid flowtherebetween. For example, as depicted in FIG. 2, in certainembodiments, a first port 212 and a first channel 222 are coupledbetween one or more fluid movement devices 130 (not depicted in FIG. 2)and the first chamber 202 to facilitate fluid flow therebetween, whereasa second port 214 and a second channel 224 are coupled between one ormore fluid movement devices 130 and the second chamber 204 to facilitatefluid flow therebetween.

In certain embodiments, one or more control devices (such as thecomputer system 128 of FIG. 1, including the processor 402 thereofdescribed further below in connection with FIG. 4) selectively activatethe low friction surface 122 or the high friction surface 124 at anyparticular point in time by providing instructions for the one or morefluid movement devices 130 to selectively move fluid into or out of thefirst chamber 202 or the second chamber 204 (e.g., via the first orsecond port 212, 214, respectively and the first or second channels 222,224, respectively), and/or between the first and second chambers 202,204 (e.g., via channels 222, 224).

Accordingly, in certain embodiments, when the low friction surface 122is activated, one or more fluid movement devices 130 of FIG. 1 (e.g.,via instructions from the computer system 128) moves fluid into thefirst chamber 202 for inflation thereof via the first port 212 and thefirst channel 222. As a result, the low friction surface 122 extendsabove the high friction surface 124, such that the low friction surface122 contacts cargo in the cargo system 102 when the low friction surface122 is activated. In certain embodiments, this is accomplished by thefluid movement devices 130 (e.g., via instructions from the computersystem 128) moving fluid out of the second chamber 204 for deflationthereof, with a similar end result of the low friction surface 122extending above the high friction surface 124, such that the lowfriction surface 122 contacts cargo in the cargo system 102. Inaddition, in certain embodiments, the inflation of the first chamber 202and the deflation of the second chamber 204 may be performed togetherwhen the low friction surface 122 is activated.

Conversely, also in certain embodiments, when the high friction surface124 is activated, one or more fluid movement devices 130 of FIG. 1(e.g., via instructions from the computer system 128) moves fluid intothe second chamber 204 for inflation thereof via the second port 214 andthe second channel 224. As a result, the high friction surface 124extends above the low friction surface 122, such that the high frictionsurface 124 contacts cargo in the cargo system 102 when the highfriction surface 124 is activated. In certain embodiments, this isaccomplished by the fluid movement devices 130 (e.g., via instructionsfrom the computer system 128) moving fluid out of the first chamber 204for deflation thereof, with a similar end result of the high frictionsurface 124 extending above the low friction surface 122, such that thehigh friction surface 124 contacts cargo in the cargo system 102. Inaddition, in certain embodiments, the inflation of the second chamber204 and the deflation of the first chamber 202 may be performed togetherwhen the high friction surface 124 is activated.

In certain embodiments, a single fluid movement device 130 (e.g., atwo-way pump) may be used for inflation and deflation of the first andsecond chambers 202, 204. In one such embodiment, the fluid movementdevice 130 comprises a two-way pump that moves fluid between the firstand second chambers 202, 204. In certain other embodiments, the fluidmovement device(s) 130 may move fluid between the chambers 202, 204 andone or more accumulators. Also in certain other embodiments, differentfluid movement devices 130 (e.g., different pumps and vacuums) may beused for inflating versus deflating the chambers 202, 204, and/ordifferent fluid movement devices 130 may similarly be used for differentrespective chambers 202, 204.

FIG. 3 provides a close-up illustration of the variable frictionsurfaces 120 of FIG. 2, in accordance with exemplary embodiments.Specifically, FIG. 3 depicts a closer view of a portion of the lowfriction surface 122 and high friction surface 124. In FIG. 3, the highfriction surface 124 is depicted in an activated state. Accordingly, inthis state, the high friction surface 124 extends above the low frictionsurface 122, and would therefore contact cargo in the cargo system 102,to thereby inhibit movement of the cargo (e.g., while the vehicle 100 isin operation and/or moving).

FIG. 4 provides a functional block diagram of the computer system 128 ofthe cargo system 102 of FIG. 1, in accordance with exemplaryembodiments. As depicted in FIG. 4, in various embodiments, the computersystem 128 (or controller) of the cargo system 102 includes a processor402, a memory 404, an interface 406, a storage device 408, and a bus410. The processor 402 performs the computation and control functions ofthe computer system 128, and may comprise any type of processor ormultiple processors, single integrated circuits such as amicroprocessor, or any suitable number of integrated circuit devicesand/or circuit boards working in cooperation to accomplish the functionsof a processing unit. During operation, the processor 402 executes oneor more programs 412 contained within the memory 404 and, as such,controls the general operation of the computer system 128, generally inexecuting the processes described herein, such as the process 600described further below in connection with FIG. 6. The control systemmay also be included within a larger control module within the vehicleresponsible for multiple functions.

The memory 404 can be any type of suitable memory. For example, thememory 404 may include various types of dynamic random access memory(DRAM) such as SDRAM, the various types of static RAM (SRAM), and thevarious types of non-volatile memory (PROM, EPROM, and flash). Incertain examples, the memory 404 is located on and/or co-located on thesame computer chip as the processor 402. In the depicted embodiment, thememory 404 stores the above-referenced program 412 along with one ormore stored values 414.

The bus 410 serves to transmit programs, data, status and otherinformation or signals between the various components of the computersystem 128. The interface 406 allows communication to the computersystem 128, for example from a system driver and/or another computersystem, and can be implemented using any suitable method and apparatus.In one embodiment, the interface 406 obtains the various data from thesensors 126 and/or the drive system 110 of FIG. 1. The interface 406 caninclude one or more network interfaces to communicate with other systemsor components. The interface 406 may also include one or more networkinterfaces to communicate with technicians, and/or one or more storageinterfaces to connect to storage apparatuses, such as the storage device408.

The storage device 408 can be any suitable type of storage apparatus,including direct access storage devices such as hard disk drives, flashsystems, floppy disk drives and optical disk drives. In one exemplaryembodiment, the storage device 408 comprises a program product fromwhich memory 404 can receive a program 412 that executes one or moreembodiments of one or more processes of the present disclosure, such asthe steps of the process 600 (and any sub-processes thereof) describedfurther below in connection with FIG. 6. In another exemplaryembodiment, the program product may be directly stored in and/orotherwise accessed by the memory 404 and/or a disk (e.g., disk 416),such as that referenced below.

The bus 410 can be any suitable physical or logical means of connectingcomputer systems and components. This includes, but is not limited to,direct hard-wired connections, fiber optics, infrared and wireless bustechnologies. During operation, the program 412 is stored in the memory404 and executed by the processor 402.

It will be appreciated that while this exemplary embodiment is describedin the context of a fully functioning computer system, those skilled inthe art will recognize that the mechanisms of the present disclosure arecapable of being distributed as a program product with one or more typesof non-transitory computer-readable signal bearing media used to storethe program and the instructions thereof and carry out the distributionthereof, such as a non-transitory computer readable medium bearing theprogram and containing computer instructions stored therein for causinga computer processor (such as the processor 402) to perform and executethe program. Such a program product may take a variety of forms, and thepresent disclosure applies equally regardless of the particular type ofcomputer-readable signal bearing media used to carry out thedistribution. Examples of signal bearing media include: recordable mediasuch as floppy disks, hard drives, memory cards and optical disks, andtransmission media such as digital and analog communication links. Itwill be appreciated that cloud-based storage and/or other techniques mayalso be utilized in certain embodiments. It will similarly beappreciated that the computer system 128 may also otherwise differ fromthe embodiment depicted in FIG. 4, for example in that the computersystem 128 may be coupled to or may otherwise utilize one or more remotecomputer systems and/or other control systems.

FIG. 5 depicts a functional block diagram of a control system 500 of thecargo system 102 of FIG. 1, and that can be implemented in connectionwith the computer system 128 of FIG. 4, in accordance with exemplaryembodiments. Specifically, as depicted in FIG. 5, and with continuedreference to FIGS. 1 and 4, in certain embodiments, a control system 500for the cargo system 102 of FIG. 1 generally includes an input module510 and a processing module 520. In various embodiments, both the inputmodule 510 and the processing module 520 are disposed onboard thevehicle 100. In certain embodiments, one or both of the input module 510and/or processing module 520, and/or components thereof, may be disposedremote from the vehicle 100 (e.g., on a remote server that communicateswith the vehicle 100). As can be appreciated, in various embodiments,parts of the control system 500 may be disposed on a system remote fromthe vehicle 100 while other parts of the control system 500 may bedisposed on the vehicle 100.

In various embodiments, the input module 510 obtains data from varioussensors and/or other systems of the vehicle 100. For example, in certainembodiments, the input module 510 obtains sensor data from one or moresensors 126 and/or the drive system 110 of FIG. 1 with respect tocircumstances as to whether the low friction surface 122 or the highfriction surface 124 is desired for the cargo system 102 (e.g., by wayof example, as to whether the vehicle 100 is parked, a gear and/ortransmission status of the vehicle 100, whether a door or hatch of thevehicle 100 is open, whether the vehicle 100 is parked on an incline,and so on).

In various embodiments, the processing module 520 receives the data asinputs 515, and processes the data. In various embodiments, theprocessing module 520 processes sensor data from the input module 510,determines whether the low friction surface 122 or the high frictionsurface 124 is desired based on the processing, and providesinstructions for the activation of the desired surface. In variousembodiments, the processing module 520 provides outputs 525 for theactivation of the selected surface (e.g., instructions for the pump 130to move fluid into, out of, or between one or more of the surfacesaccordingly, to attain the activation of the desired surface), forexample as described greater below in connection with the process 600 ofFIG. 6.

FIG. 6 depicts a flowchart of a process 600 for controlling a cargosystem 102 of a vehicle. In various embodiments, the process 600 can beimplemented in connection with the vehicle 100 and cargo system 102 ofFIG. 2, the variable friction surfaces 120 of FIGS. 2 and 2, thecomputer system 128 of FIG. 4, and the control system 500 of FIG. 5, inaccordance with exemplary embodiments.

As depicted in FIG. 6, the process begins at 602. In one embodiment, theprocess 600 begins when a vehicle drive or ignition cycle begins, forexample when a driver approaches or enters the vehicle 100, or when thedriver or occupant approaches the vehicle and/or turns on the vehicleand/or an ignition therefor (e.g. by turning a key, engaging a keyfob orstart button, and so on). In one embodiment, the steps of the process600 are performed continuously during operation of the vehicle.

In various embodiments, the cargo system 102 has a default surfaceactivated (in addition to an activated state, there could also be adefault, statically ‘deployed’ state, i.e. the high friction surface isjust nominally taller than the low friction surface) at 604. In certainembodiments, the low friction surface 122 is activated as the defaultsurface when the process 600 begins. In certain embodiments, the firstchamber 202 of FIG. 2 is inflated at 604, so that the low frictionsurface 122 extends above the high friction surface 124. In certainother embodiments, the low friction surface 122 may comprise a staticcomponent that is deployed in the cargo system 102 at a height that isabove the high friction surface 124. In such embodiments, the lowfriction surface 122 extends above the high friction surface 124 tocontact cargo in the cargo system 102. In certain embodiments, thedefault surface is activated when the vehicle 100 is not in operationand is not moving. In certain embodiments, the default surface may vary.

Also in various embodiments, inputs are received at 606. In certainembodiments, sensor data is obtained from the sensors 126 of FIG. 1(e.g., via the input module 510 of FIG. 5). Also in certain embodiments,the sensor data comprises data as to whether a switch for the cargosystem 102 has been activated, whether the vehicle 100 is parked, a gearand/or transmission status of the vehicle 100, whether a door or hatchof the vehicle 100 is open, whether the vehicle 100 is parked on anincline, whether cargo loads are being applied to the system surface(s),and/or data pertaining to whether one or more other conditions aresatisfied that may impact whether activation of the low friction surface122 or the high friction surface 124 is desired.

Also in certain embodiments, a determination is made at 608 as towhether a change in the activated surface is desired, based on theinputs. For example, in certain embodiments, a change to activate thehigh friction surface 124 may be desired when a switch to activate thehigh friction surface 124 is engaged, and/or when the vehicle 100 ismoving, a rear hatch or other door of the vehicle 100 is closed, anignition for the vehicle 100 has been turned on, and/or the vehicle 100is otherwise ready for movement (e.g., such that it may be desired tokeep the cargo in place within the cargo system 102 while the vehicle ismoving), and/or when the vehicle 100 is parked at a steep angle (e.g.,such that it may be desired for the cargo not to slide out too quickly).In certain embodiments, such a determination of 608 may be made by oneor more processors, such as the processor 402 of FIG. 4 (e.g., via theprocessing module 520 of FIG. 5).

If a change in the activated surface is not desired, then, at 610, thecurrently activated surface remains the same. For example, in certainembodiments, during an initial iteration of 610, the low frictionsurface 122 remains activated as the default surface during 610. Also invarious embodiments, the process proceeds to 618, described furtherbelow.

Conversely, if a change in the activated surface is desired, then achange in the activated surface is implemented at 612 in variousembodiments. For example, in certain embodiments, the processor 402 ofFIG. 4 (e.g., via the processing module 520 of FIG. 5) providesinstructions for one or more fluid movement devices 130 (e.g., one ormore pumps) to selectively inflate or deflate one or more appropriatechambers 200 to thereby activate the desired surface, for example asdescribed in greater detail with various examples above with respect toFIG. 2. For example, in certain embodiments, when the high frictionsurface 124 is selected for activation, fluid is provided to inflate thesecond chamber 204, and/or fluid is removed from the first chamber 202,to thereby effectively have the high friction surface 124 elevated withrespect to the low friction surface 122 to contact the cargo in thecargo system 102.

In certain embodiments, the activation of the desired surface at 612 maybe performed without any processor, and without any specificdeterminations of 608. For example, in certain embodiments, the fluidmovement device(s) 130 (e.g., a pump) may be mechanically or otherwisecoupled to the sensors 126 for automatic activation of the desiredsurface, without requiring a processor, when a switch is engaged by auser or vehicle device. Also in certain embodiments, the fluid movementdevice(s) 130 (e.g., a pump) may also be connected or otherwise coupledto one or more vehicle devices for activation when a condition exists(e.g., via coupling to a rear hatch, such that the pump moves air intoor out of the desired chamber when the rear hatch is opened or closed),and so on in various embodiments.

In various embodiments, a determination is also made at 614 as towhether another change in the activated surface is desired. In certainembodiments, inputs from 606 are continuously obtained, and furtherdeterminations are continuously made in iterations of 614 as to whethera further change exists for the desired surface for activation. Forexample, in certain embodiments, if a change in surface was made in 612as a result of the vehicle 100 being driven, and the vehicle 100 issubsequently parked, then another change in the activated surface may bewarranted based on the vehicle 100 now being parked, and so on. Invarious embodiments, the determinations of 614 are similar to those of608, described above.

If a further change in the activated surface is desired, then such afurther change in the activated surface is implemented at 616. Invarious embodiments, the activation of 616 is similar to that of 612,but with respect to a different activated surface. For example, incertain embodiments, if the high friction surface 124 was activated in amost recent iteration of 612 and a further change is subsequentlydesired, then the low friction surfaced 112 may be activated in acurrent iteration of 614, and so on. Conversely, if a further change inthe activated surface is not desired, then in various embodiments theprocess proceeds instead to step 610, as the activated surface remainsthe same. In various embodiments, in either case, the process thenproceeds to 618, described below.

In various embodiments, a determination is made at 618 at to whether theprocess is to continue. For example, in certain embodiments, during 618,a processor determines whether the vehicle 100 is still in operation,and/or whether a user is still in proximity to the vehicle 100. Incertain embodiments, if the process is to continue, then the processreturns to 606 in a new iteration. Otherwise, in various embodiments,the process terminates at 620.

Accordingly, the systems and vehicles described herein provide for cargosystems for vehicles, with the cargo systems utilizing variable frictionsurfaces. In various embodiments, a low friction surface is activatedwhen appropriate (e.g., when the vehicle is parked) to facilitatemovement of cargo in and out of the cargo system. Conversely, also invarious embodiments, a high friction surface is activated whenappropriate (e.g., when the vehicle is moving) to restrict movement ofcargo within the cargo system.

It will be appreciated that the systems and vehicles (and componentsthereof) may vary from those depicted in the Figures and describedherein. It will similarly be appreciated that the cargo system, andcomponents and implementations thereof, may be installed in any numberof different types of platforms (including those discussed above), andvary from that depicted in FIGS. 1-5 and described in connectiontherewith, in various embodiments. It will also be appreciated that theprocesses (and/or subprocesses) disclosed herein may differ from thosedescribed herein and/or depicted in FIG. 6, and/or that steps thereofmay be performed simultaneously and/or in a different order as describedherein and/or depicted in FIG. 6, among other possible variations.

While at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in theforegoing detailed description, it should be appreciated that a vastnumber of variations exist. It should also be appreciated that theexemplary embodiment or exemplary embodiments are only examples, and arenot intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of thedisclosure in any way. Rather, the foregoing detailed description willprovide those skilled in the art with a convenient road map forimplementing the exemplary embodiment or exemplary embodiments. Itshould be understood that various changes can be made in the functionand arrangement of elements without departing from the scope of thedisclosure as set forth in the appended claims and the legal equivalentsthereof.

What is claimed is:
 1. A cargo system for a vehicle, the cargo systemcomprising: a variable cargo surface configured to be disposed within abody of the vehicle, the variable cargo surface comprising: a lowfriction surface that facilitates movement of cargo within the cargosystem, the low friction surface having a first coefficient of friction;and a high friction surface that inhibits movement of cargo within thecargo system, the high friction surface having a second coefficient offriction that is greater than the first coefficient of friction; and acontrol device that selectively activates and deactivates the lowfriction surface based on conditions of the vehicle, wherein: the lowfriction surface contacts the cargo within the cargo system when the lowfriction surface is activated; and the high friction surface contactsthe cargo within the cargo system when the low friction surface isdeactivated.
 2. The cargo system of claim 1, further comprising: achamber configured to receive fluid for activating and deactivating thelow friction surface.
 3. The cargo system of claim 2, furthercomprising: one or more fluid movement devices configured to move fluidinto and out of the chamber, to thereby selectively activate anddeactivate the low friction surface.
 4. The cargo system of claim 3,wherein the one or more fluid movement devices comprise: a pumpconfigured to move fluid into the chamber, to thereby selectivelyactivate the low friction surface.
 5. The cargo system of claim 4,wherein the pump is further configured to remove fluid out of thechamber, to thereby deactivate the low friction surface.
 6. The cargosystem of claim 4, wherein the one or more fluid movement devicesfurther comprise: a vacuum configured to remove fluid out of thechamber, to thereby deactivate the low friction surface.
 2. The cargosystem of claim 2, wherein: the chamber inflates, thereby causing thelow friction surface to rise above the high friction surface such thatthe low friction surface contacts the cargo, when fluid moves into thechamber; and the chamber deflates, thereby causing the low frictionsurface to move below the high friction surface such that the highfriction surface contacts the cargo, when fluid is movd out of thechamber.
 8. The cargo system of claim 7, wherein the chamber comprises abladder system that is coupled to the low friction surface.
 9. The cargosystem of claim 7, wherein the chamber comprises a bladder system thatis part of the low friction surface.
 10. The cargo system of claim 9,wherein the chamber comprises a bladder system that is fully integratedwith the low friction surface.
 11. A cargo system for a vehicle, thecargo system comprising: a variable cargo surface configured to bedisposed within a body of the vehicle, the variable cargo surfacecomprising: a low friction surface that facilitates movement of cargowithin the cargo system, the low friction surface having a firstcoefficient of friction; and a high friction surface that inhibitsmovement of cargo within the cargo system, the high friction surfacehaving a second coefficient of friction that is greater than the firstcoefficient of friction; a control device that selectively activates oneor both of the low friction surface and the high friction surface basedon conditions of the vehicle, wherein: the low friction surface contactsthe cargo within the cargo system when the low friction surface isactivated; and the high friction surface contacts the cargo within thecargo system when the low friction surface is deactivated; and one ormore chambers that are fully integrated with one or both of the lowfriction surface and the high friction surfaces, wherein the the chamberis configured to receive fluid for selectively activating the one orboth of the the low friction surface and the high friction surface. 12.A vehicle comprising: a body; one or more occupant seats disposed withinthe body; and a cargo system comprising: a variable cargo surfacedisposed within the body of the vehicle behind one or more of theoccupant seats, the variable cargo surface comprising: a low frictionsurface that facilitates movement of cargo within the cargo system, thelow friction surface having a first coefficient of friction; a highfriction surface that inhibits movement of cargo within the cargosystem, the high friction surface having a second coefficient offriction that is greater than the first coefficient of friction; and acontrol device that selectively activates and deactivates the lowfriction surface based on conditions of the vehicle, wherein: the lowfriction surface contacts the cargo within the cargo system when the lowfriction surface is activated; and the high friction surface contactsthe cargo within the cargo system when the low friction surface isdeactivated.
 13. The vehicle of claim 12, wherein the cargo systemfurther comprises: a chamber coupled to the low friction surface, thechamber configured to receive fluid for activating and deactivating thelow friction surface.
 14. The vehicle of claim 13, wherein the cargosystem further comprises: one or more fluid movement devices configuredto move fluid into and out of the chamber, to thereby selectivelyactivate and deactivate the low friction surface.
 15. The vehicle ofclaim 14, wherein the one or more fluid movement devices comprise: apump configured to: move fluid into the chamber, to thereby selectivelyactivate the low friction surface; and remove fluid out of the chamber,to thereby deactivate the low friction surface.
 16. The vehicle of claim14, wherein the one or more fluid movement devices comprise: a pumpconfigured to move fluid into the chamber, to thereby selectivelyactivate the low friction surface; and a vacuum configured to removefluid out of the chamber, to thereby deactivate the low frictionsurface.
 17. The vehicle of claim 13, wherein: the chamber inflates,thereby causing the low friction surface to rise above the high frictionsurface such that the low friction surface contacts the cargo, whenfluid moves into the chamber; and the chamber deflates, thereby causingthe low friction surface to move below the high friction surface suchthat the high friction surface contacts the cargo, when fluid is movdout of the chamber.
 18. The vehicle of claim 17, wherein the chambercomprises a bladder system that is coupled to the low friction surface.19. The vehicle of claim 17, wherein the chamber comprises a bladdersystem that is part of the low friction surface.
 20. The vehicle ofclaim 19, wherein the chamber comprises a bladder system that is fullyintegrated with the low friction surface.